Three years ago Ford moved to New York, becoming vice chairman of Merrill Lynch. Now, according to the New York Times, a group of influential Democrats is urging the former congressman to consider challenging Democrat Kirsten E. Gillibrand. Appointed to fill the term of Hillary Clinton after the former first lady was tapped by President Obama to as secretary of State, Gillibrand lacks the star power that New Yorkers have come to expect in their senators.

Among the rooting section: financier Steven Rattner and his wife, Maureen White, prolific Democratic fundraisers. “Maureen and I worked hard for Harold in his last race because we think the world of him,” Rattner told The Times. “He has extraordinary drive and intelligence and will excel at anything that he chooses to do.”

Ford, who followed his father's footsteps to the House, has a reputation as a formidable fundraiser, which could spell trouble for Gillibrand, who as of October had raised $5.5 million. As chairman of the centrist Democratic Leadership Council, he could appeal to independents. As an African American, he could attract national donors. And as a telegenic member of the media's chattering classes, he would get lots of attention.